Customizable saferoom and method for making same

ABSTRACT

According to one embodiment of the invention, a customizable saferoom includes a ceiling panel, a first wall panel having a first set of dimensions, a second wall panel having a second set of dimensions, a third wall panel having a third set of dimensions, and a fourth wall panel having a fourth set of dimensions. Each of the ceiling panel and the first, second, third, and fourth wall panels are coupled to at least one other of the ceiling panel, the first, second, third, and fourth wall panels to form an enclosed structure. The first, second, third, and fourth sets of dimensions are selected to optimize the volumetric capacity of the enclosed structure within the confines of a pre-existing space within a building.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 of provisionalapplication Ser. No. 60/671,451, filed Apr. 11, 2005.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to saferoom construction, and more particularlyto a customizable saferoom for assembly in irregular and existing spacesand method for making same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Saferooms, which may be installed in residences, businesses, and otherbuildings, are used to shelter inhabitants from violent storms andintruders. In contrast, to a storm shelter, which is generallyconstructed below the ground's surface and is external to the buildingwith which it is associated, a saferoom forms a secure space within theinternal confines of the building. Although a saferoom may beconstructed above or below the building's foundation, such constructionis difficult where the building is a pre-existing structure and, thus,must be adapted for the inclusion of the saferoom.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one embodiment of the invention, a customizable saferoomincludes a ceiling panel, a first wall panel having a first set ofdimensions, a second wall panel having a second set of dimensions, athird wall panel having a third set of dimensions, and a fourth wallpanel having a fourth set of dimensions. Each of the ceiling panel andthe first, second, third, and fourth wall panels are coupled to at leastone other of the ceiling panel, the first, second, third, and fourthwall panels to form an enclosed structure. The first, second, third, andfourth sets of dimensions are selected to optimize the volumetriccapacity of the enclosed structure within the confines of a pre-existingspace within a building.

Particular embodiments of the present invention provide one or moretechnical advantages. Some embodiments may benefit from some, none, orall of these advantages. One technical advantage may be that acustomizable saferoom may be assembled beneath a stairwell or in anotherirregularly shaped space of an existing structure. As a result, anexisting structure may be adapted to include a saferoom in a closet orother wasted, and possibly previously inaccessible, space beneath astairwell. Another technical advantage may be that the structuralintegrity of the space may be improved by the inclusion of thecustomizable saferoom. For example, the additional structure of thecustomizable saferoom may be resistant to displacement during a tornadoor other violent storm. As a result, the customizable saferoom mayprotect inhabitants of the customizable saferoom from being pickedphysically displaced by the storm. Additionally, the customizablesaferoom may protect inhabitants from debris circulating in the airduring the storm. A further technical advantage may be that thecustomizable saferoom may be used for purposes other than for protectionagainst tornadoes and other violent storms. For example, because acustomizable saferoom provides a secure area within a dwelling or otherbuilding, a customizable saferoom may be used as a panic room to protectinhabitants of the building in the case of an invasion.

Other technical advantages may be readily apparent to those skilled inthe art from the following figures, description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention and forfurther features and advantages, reference is now made to the followingdescription, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exterior view of acustomizable saferoom, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 2A-2C are schematic diagrams illustrating various panels andcomponents for forming a customizable saferoom, according to anembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating example arrangementsof sidewall and endwall panels for the assembly of a customizablesaferoom, according to certain embodiments of the present invention; and

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an interior view of a secureingress within a customizable saferoom, according to an embodiment ofthe present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is generally recognized that a closet or other interior room withoutwindows is the safest room in the house for seeking shelter from aviolent storm. This is especially true of the space that liesimmediately below a stairwell since the stairwell is generally able towithstand greater wind speeds in a violent storm such as a tornado. Thestructural integrity of the space may be improved, however, with theinclusion of a customizable saferoom. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagramillustrating an exterior view of a customizable saferoom 10, accordingto an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, customizablesaferoom 10 is configured for assembly in a pre-existing space such asunder a stairwell 24 or within another small space. The additionalstructure added by customizable saferoom 10 is resistant to displacementduring a tornado or other violent storm. As a result, customizablesaferoom 10 may protect inhabitants of customizable saferoom 10 frombeing picked up and tossed around during the storm. Additionally,customizable saferoom 10 may protect inhabitants from debris circulatingin the air during the storm. Furthermore, because customizable saferoom10 provides a secure area within a dwelling or other building,customizable saferoom 10 may be used as a panic room to protectinhabitants of the building in the case of an invasion.

Customizable saferoom 10 includes a plurality of panels 12 formed ofheavy gauge steel or another suitable high-strength material. Suchpanels 12 may include one or more ceiling panels 12 a, one or moresidewall panels 12 b, one or more endwall panels 12 c, and one or morefloor panels (not shown). As will be described in more detail withregard to FIGS. 2A-2C, panels 12 may be C-shaped, U-shaped, L-shaped,I-shaped, flat, or any combination of the above. In particularembodiments, the shape of each panel 12 may be selected based on itsability to be coupled to other panels 12 and to any other components ofcustomizable saferoom 10. In particular embodiments, panels 12 may be onthe order of 3/16″ thick. In other embodiments, panels 12 may be on theorder of ¼″ thick. It is recognized, however, that all dimensionsdescribed in this document are provided for example purposes only; anyappropriate dimensions may be used in the construction of customizablesaferoom 10 and its components. Accordingly, customizable saferoom mayinclude panels 12 of any thickness suitable for providing a desiredamount of structural integrity to withstand violent storms orintrusions.

Customizable saferoom 10 also includes one or more frame portions 14 forcoupling panels 12 to one another and to other components ofcustomizable saferoom 10. Frame portions 14 may be formed of heavy gaugesteel or another suitable high-strength material. As illustrated in FIG.1, customizable saferoom 10 includes two frame portions 14 a and 14 b.In particular embodiments, a first frame portion 14 a may comprise oneor more L-shaped pieces that are configured to couple customizablesaferoom 10 to a foundation 18 or other supporting structure. Thus,first frame portion 14 a may form the base frame of customizablesaferoom 10. A second frame portion 14 b may form a ceiling frame forcustomizable saferoom 10 and may be configured similarly to first frameportion 14 a. Thus, second frame portion 14 b may include one or moreL-shaped pieces that are configured to couple to any sidewall panels 12b, endwall panels 12 c, or ceiling panels 12 a, as is appropriate.

To provide structural integrity to customizable saferoom 10, frames 14and panels 12, which form customizable saferoom 10, are coupled to oneanother using a plurality of high-strength fasteners 20 and 22. Inparticular embodiments, fasteners 20 and 22 may include may includebolts and nuts, rivets, welding, or other suitable high-strengthfasteners. In particular embodiments, fasteners 20 and 22 may includebolts and nuts having a diameter on the order of ½ inch. However, thedimensions of fasteners 20 and 22 are provided for example purposesonly; it is generally recognized that any type and size of high strengthfastener that is suitable for providing structural integrity to thecomponents of customizable saferoom 10 during a violent storm orintrusion may be utilized for the construction of customizable saferoom10.

To accommodate high strength fasteners 20 and 22, first and second frameportions 14 a and 14 b may include preformed holes or slots throughwhich first and second frame portions 14 a and 14 b may be coupled toother components of customizable saferoom 10. For example, first frameportion 14 a may include preformed holes or slots through which anchorbolts 16 or other fasteners may be used to secure customizable saferoom10 to foundation 18. For the further assembly of customized saferoom 10,first frame portion 14 a may also include preformed holes or slotsthrough which fasteners 20 may be used to couple any adjacent sidewallpanels 12 b, endwall panels 12 c, or floor panels (not shown) to firstframe portion 14 a. Similarly, second frame portion 14 b may includepreformed holes or slots through which fasteners 22 may be used tocouple any adjacent sidewall panels 12 b, endwall panels 12 c, orceiling panels 12 a to second frame portion 14 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, customizable saferoom 10 is configuredfor installation beneath a stairwell 24. As discussed above, it isgenerally recognized that the area beneath a stairwell is one of themore structurally sound areas within a structure. However, such areasoften include a closet that is used for storage or, even worse, isinaccessible wasted space. Customizable saferoom 10, however, isconfigured to be placed beneath stairwell 24 in a pre-existing closet orother adaptable and irregular space. For adaptation to the irregularspace beneath stairwell 24, the illustrated customizable safe room 10includes at least one ceiling panel 12 a that includes a sloped portion26 at an end 28 furthest from an ingress point 30 to customizablesaferoom 10. Thus, end 28 of customizable saferoom 10 is configured forplacement beneath one or more steps of stairwell 24 that are closer tothe foundation 18 on which customizable saferoom 10 is installed. In theillustrated embodiment, ceiling panel 12 a of customizable saferoom 10also includes a flat portion 32 that is substantially parallel tofoundation 18 beneath customizable saferoom 10. In particularembodiments, the area beneath flat portion 32 may provide the greatestheight dimension within customizable saferoom 10.

In particular embodiments, customizable saferoom 10 may include aventilation system 34 providing for the circulation of air to and fromcustomizable saferoom 10. For example, ventilation system 34 may includevents in one or more of the panels 12 of customizable saferoom 10.Additionally or alternatively, ventilation system 34 may include a fanor other mechanical device for removing stale air and adding fresh airto customizable saferoom 10. In particular embodiments, ventilationsystem 34 may be debris resistant to prevent the passage ofstorm-carried debris into customizable saferoom 10.

Although customizable saferoom 10 is described as being configured forplacement beneath a stairwell 24, it is recognized that the particularconfiguration of the panels 12 forming customizable saferoom 10, asillustrated in FIG. 1, is merely one example configuration. Customizablesaferoom 10 may be of any desired configuration and is said to be“customizable” since the saferoom 10 may be customized depending uponthe size and shape of the space in which customizable saferoom 10 isinstalled. For example, where customizable saferoom 10 is designed to beplaced within an L-shaped closet, customizable saferoom 10 may likewisehave an L-shaped configuration. As another example, where customizablesaferoom is designed to be placed beneath a set of stairs 24, as shownin FIG. 1, the ceiling panel of customizable saferoom may also bestair-stepped to mate with the underside of the stairs. As anotherexample still, it is generally recognized that ingress 30 tocustomizable saferoom 10, though shown on an endwall 12 c, may likewisebe included on a sidewall 12 b where appropriate. Alternatively, it maybe desirable to incorporate ingress 30 into ceiling panel 12 a. Thus,ingress 30 may form a hatch that is accessible from the top floor ofstairwell 24 or from a landing of stairwell 24.

Furthermore, although described as being customizably configured forplacement within a pre-existing space, it is recognized that thecustomizable saferoom 10 of in FIG. 1 may also be easily incorporatedinto a residence or other building during construction. The shape mayvary depending upon the design of the building. As another possiblemodification, the panels 12 forming customizable saferoom 10 may besealed or otherwise treated with a protective coating. In particularembodiments, for example, panels 12 may include an epoxy coating that isresistant to rust or other corrosion. Such a protective coating may bedesirable where it is anticipated that exterior surfaces of customizablesaferoom 10 may come into contact with water, minerals, and otherdamaging elements. Alternatively, a protective coating may be desirablewhere a durable and finished look is desired.

FIGS. 2A-C illustrate schematic diagrams of various components forforming a customizable saferoom 10, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention. Although the components of FIGS. 2A-C may bedescribed as being of particular shapes and dimensions, it is understoodthat such shapes and dimensions are provided as a mere example of aparticular customizable saferoom 10. As described above, the dimensionsof the components may vary, as required, to maximize the size ofcustomizable saferoom 10 within the area in which customizable saferoom10 is installed.

Specifically, FIG. 2A illustrates a base frame 100 that may beconfigured, as described above, for the anchoring of customizablesaferoom 10 to foundation 18 or other supporting structure beneathcustomizable saferoom 10. As illustrated, base frame 100 comprises fourL-shaped frame portions 102 a-d that are coupled to one another to forma substantially rectangular area 104 within base frame 100. In aparticular embodiment, each frame portion 102 a-d may include anL-shaped angle formed of heavy gauge steel. Thus, each frame portion 102a-d may include two legs 106 a and 106 b that form a right angle. Inparticular embodiments, legs 106 a and 106 b may each have a length onthe order of approximately 4 inches. Although shown rectangular, thesize and shape of area 104 may vary depending upon the shape of the areain which saferoom 10 is to be placed.

A first leg 106 a may be positioned such that it is substantiallyparallel and adjacent to foundation 18. For the anchoring of base frame100 to foundation 18, first leg 106 a includes preformed holes or slots108 for receiving anchor bolts to attach base frame 100 to foundation18. In particular embodiments, high strength ⅝ inch anchor bolts may beused to anchor base frame 100 to foundation 18. Accordingly, inparticular embodiments, holes 108 may have a diameter on the order ofapproximately ⅝ inch. In another embodiments, high strength ¾ inchanchor bolts may be used to anchor base frame 100 to foundation 18. As aresult, holes 108 may have a corresponding diameter on the order ofapproximately ¾″.

Second leg 106 b of base frame 100 may be configured similar to firstleg 106 a. However, when installed, second leg 106 b may besubstantially perpendicular to foundation 18. Accordingly, second leg106 b may be used to couple base frame 100 to the panels 12 forming thewalls of saferoom 10. For the coupling of second leg 106 b to panels 12,second leg 106 b may include preformed holes or slots 110 for receivinghigh-strength fasteners, such as high-strength fasteners 20 and 22described above with respect to FIG. 1. Thus, in particular embodiments,second leg 106 b may include preformed holes 110 that have a diameter onthe order of approximately ½ inch for receiving ½ inch anchor bolts.

FIG. 2B illustrates one side of a top frame 200 that may be configured,as described above, for coupling the walls 12 b and 12 c of customizablesaferoom 10 to ceiling panel 12 a. As illustrated, top frame 200comprises four or more L-shaped frame portions 202 a-d that are coupledto one another to form two substantially planar areas 204 a and 204 bwithin top frame 200. Similar to base frame 100, it is generallyrecognized that the size and shape of planar areas 204 a-b may varydepending upon the shape of the area in which saferoom 10 is to beplaced. As discussed above, the illustrated shape may be particularlysuited for the placement of customizable saferoom 10 in an irregularspace such as beneath a stairwell.

In a particular embodiment, each frame portion 202 a-d may include anL-shaped angle formed of heavy gauge steel. Thus, each frame portion 202a-d may include two legs 206 a and 206 b that form a right angle withone another. In particular embodiments, legs 206 a and 206 b may eachhave a length on the order of approximately 4 inches. A first leg 206 amay be positioned such that it is substantially parallel to foundation18. Thus, first leg 206 a may couple to ceiling panel 12 a and mayinclude preformed holes or slots 208 for receiving high-strengthfasteners for the coupling of first leg 206 a to ceiling panel 12 a. Inparticular embodiments, high strength ⅝ inch bolts may be used to coupletop frame 200 to ceiling panel 12 a. Accordingly, in particularembodiments, holes 208 may have a diameter on the order of approximately⅝ inch. In another embodiments, high strength ¾ inch bolts may be usedto couple top frame 200 to ceiling panel 12 a. As a result, holes 208may have a corresponding diameter on the order of approximately ¾ inch.

Second leg 206 b of top frame 200 may be configured similar to first leg206 a. However, when installed, second leg 206 b may be substantiallyperpendicular to foundation 18 and ceiling panel 12 a and substantiallyparallel to the wall panels 12 b-c. Accordingly, second leg 206 b may beused to couple top frame 200 to the panels 12 b-c forming the walls ofcustomizable saferoom 10. To enable such couplings, second leg 206 b mayinclude preformed holes or slots 210 for receiving high-strengthfasteners, such as high-strength fasteners 20 and 22 described abovewith respect to FIG. 1. Where fasteners 20 and 22 have a diameter on theorder of approximately ½ inch, second leg 206 b may include preformedholes 210 that have a diameter on the order of approximately ½ inch toaccommodate fasteners 20 and 22.

As described above, top frame 200 forms two substantially planar areas204 a and 204 b within top frame 200. When installed to formcustomizable saferoom 10, planar area 204 a is substantially parallel tofoundation 18 a and couples to a flat portion 32 of ceiling panel 12 a.By contrast, planar area 204 b is sloped from planar area 204 a towardfoundation 18 b and couples to a sloped portion 26 of ceiling panel 12a. Thus, the height of customizable saferoom 10 is greater beneath topframe portion 202 d than beneath top frame portion 202 c. The describedembodiment may be appropriate for placing a customizable saferoom 10that includes top frame 200 or a top frame similar to top frame 200beneath a stairwell or other irregular surface within the house or otherbuilding. For example, planar area 204 a of top frame 200 may bepositioned in a stairwell beneath a lower portion of steps.

FIG. 2C illustrates a sidewall panel 300 according to a particularembodiment. Although a sidewall panel may be formed from a single pieceof metal or other suitable material, the illustrated sidewall panel 300is comprised of multiple sidewall portions 302. For example, in theillustrated embodiment, sidewall panel 300 is comprised of four sidewallportions 302 a-d and each sidewall portion 302 a-d is configured to becoupled to at least one adjacent sidewall portion 302 a-d. Sidewallportions 302 a-d may each be C-shaped, U-shaped, or of anotherappropriate configuration that allows for the coupling together ofadjacent sidewall portions 302 a-d. C-shaped and U-shaped panels may beparticularly suitable for coupling to one another since such portionsinclude legs 303 a and 303 b. Legs 303 a-b of adjacent C-shaped orU-shaped panels may be positioned proximate to each other, and preformedholes or slots formed through the legs of C-shaped or U-shaped panelsmay be aligned. To couple to adjacent sidewall portions 302 a-d,fasteners such as bolts may be inserted through the aligned preformedholes or slots.

As illustrated, sidewall portions 302 a and 302 b are substantiallyrectangular and correspond generally with the tallest portion ofcustomizable saferoom 10. In a particular embodiment, sidewall portions302 a and 302 b comprise C-channel members that each have a width on theorder of approximately 20 3/16 inches and a length on the order of 72inches. Thus, if a customizable saferoom 10 is constructed using asidewall panel 300, such as that illustrated in FIG. 2C, the tallestportion of sidewall panel 300 may be approximately 6 feet tall.

Sidewall portions 302 a and 302 b each include two preformed slots 304along a top edge 306. In particular embodiments, top edge 306 of panel300 is placed proximate the ceiling and ceiling frame of customizablesaferoom 10. As illustrated, top edge 306 includes a substantially flatportion that is parallel to the opposing bottom edge 310, which isplaced proximate the foundation 18 and base frame 14 a of customizablesaferoom 10. Similar to top edge 306, sidewall portions 302 a and 302 beach include two preformed slots 308 along a bottom edge 310. Inparticular embodiments, where sidewall portions 302 a and 302 b have awidth of approximately 20 3/16 inches, preformed slots 304 and 308 maybe positioned such that they are approximately 6 inches from the centerline 312 and 314 of sidewall portions 302 a and 302 b, respectively.

In contrast to sidewall portions 302 a and 302 b, sidewall portion 302 cincludes a top edge 318 that includes a flat portion and a slopedportion. The sloped portion corresponds generally with the slope of theceiling frame. Where customizable saferoom 10 is configured forinstallation beneath a stairwell and includes a ceiling having both asloped portion and a flat portion, sidewall portion 302 c may be used toform the portion of the sidewall 300 that is adjacent to and couples tothe portion of the ceiling or top frame that transitions from asubstantially flat portion to a substantially sloped portion. Thus,sidewall portion 302 c is a transition portion of sidewall 300.

In a particular embodiment, sidewall portion 302 c includes a C-channelmember having a width on the order of approximately 20 3/16 inches. Thelonger edge of sidewall portion 302 c has a length on the order ofapproximately 72 inches. The opposing edge may vary depending upon thewidth of the sidewall portion 302 c and the slope of the ceiling panel.In one example embodiment, the length of the opposing edge may be on theorder of approximately 60 inches. Like sidewall portions 302 a and 302b, sidewall portion 302 c includes two preformed slots 316 along a topedge 318 and two preformed slots 320 along a bottom edge 322. Inparticular embodiments, where sidewall portion 302 c has a width ofapproximately 20 3/16 inches, preformed slots 316 and 320 may bepositioned such that they are approximately 6 inches from the centerline 316 of sidewall portion 302 c.

Sidewall portion 302 d comprises a sloped portion and, in theillustrated embodiment, is placed proximate to the shortest endwall 12 cof customizable saferoom 10. Thus, the longer side of sidewall portion302 d couples to transition sidewall portion 302 c, and the shorter sideof sidewall portion 302 d couples to and endwall panel such as endwallpanel 23 c. The slope of the top edge 326 of sidewall portion 302 dcorresponds generally with the slope of the ceiling frame and the slopeof the stairwell or other irregular surface under which the customizablesaferoom is placed. Accordingly, sidewall portion 302 d may be used toform a portion of sidewall 300 that is adjacent to and couples to theportion of the ceiling or top frame that is sloped relative to thesupporting foundation.

Similar to sidewall portions 302 a-c, sidewall portion 302 d may includea C-channel member having a width on the order of approximately 20 3/16inches in particular embodiments. For coupling to sidewall portion 302d, the longest side of sidewall portion 302 d may have a length on theorder of approximately 60 inches, and the shortest side may have alength on the order of approximately 45 inches. Like sidewall portions302 a-c, sidewall portion 302 d includes two preformed slots 324 along atop edge 326 and two preformed slots 328 along a bottom edge 330. Inparticular embodiments where sidewall portion 302 d has a width ofapproximately 20 3/16 inches, preformed slots 324 and 328 may bepositioned such that they are approximately 6 inches from the centerline 332 of sidewall portion 302 d.

The dimensions described above are appropriate for the construction of acustomized saferoom has a length of approximately 81 inches, as measuredfrom endwall to endwall. The dimensions provided, however, are merelyone example embodiment. As stated above, dimensions may vary based onthe size of the area housing the customizable saferoom 10. Similarly,the number of portions forming a panel, such as sidewall 300, may alsovary based on the desired dimensions of the customizable saferoom 10.Thus, it is recognized that a sidewall may have fewer or more panelportions than the illustrated four, and the top edge of each panelportion may be configured as necessary for the space provided.Furthermore, although FIG. 2C illustrates a sidewall, specifically, itis recognized that an endwall of customizable saferoom 10 may beconstructed to have features similar to those described above withrespect to sidewall panel 300.

As a further modification, although sidewall 300 is not illustrated asincluding an ingress, the panel portions may be modified to accommodatea side ingress. FIG. 3A illustrates an example configuration of acustomizable saferoom 400 having a side ingress 402 in a first sidewall404. Sidewall 404 is formed from two U-shaped portions 406 and 408 andan L-shaped portion 410. Adjacent legs of the sidewall portions 406,408, and 410 are coupled by fasteners 412 that extend through alignedpreformed holes in each adjacent leg similar to that described abovewith regard to FIG. 2C. A gap in first sidewall 404 corresponds with theplacement of an ingress 402, which may accommodate a door similar tothat which will be described below with regard to FIG. 4. Additionalpreformed holes or slots may be disposed proximate a top edge of each ofsidewall portions 406, 408, 410 for coupling sidewall portions 406, 408,and 410 to the ceiling or top frame. Conversely, preformed holes orslots disposed proximate a bottom edge of the sidewall portions 406,408, and 410 may be used to couple sidewall portions 406, 408, and 410to the base frame.

A second sidewall 414 is formed similar to first sidewall 404 but doesnot include a gap for an ingress. Specifically, in the illustratedembodiment, second sidewall 414 is formed from four U-shaped portions416, 418, 420, and 424. Adjacent legs of the U-shaped portions 416, 418,420, and 424 are coupled by fasteners 426 that extend through alignedpreformed holes in each adjacent leg. Additional preformed holes orslots may be disposed proximate a top edge of each of sidewall portions416, 418, 420, and 424 for coupling sidewall portions 416, 418, 420, and424 to the ceiling or top frame. Similarly, preformed holes or slotsdisposed proximate a bottom edge of the sidewall portions 416, 418, 420,and 424 may be used to couple sidewall portions 416, 418, 420, and 424to the base frame.

First sidewall 404 and second sidewall 414 each couple to a firstendwall 428 and a second endwall 430. In the illustrated embodiment,first and second endwall 428 and 430 are configured similarly. Thus,only first endwall 428 will be described in detail. In the illustratedembodiment, first endwall 428 is formed from two L-shaped portions 432and 434. The shorter legs of the L-shaped portions are coupled to oneanother by one or more fasteners 436 that extend through alignedpreformed holes formed in the shorter legs of the L-shaped portions.Similarly, the longer legs of L-shaped portions 432 and 434 are coupledto first and second sidewalls 404 and 414, respectively. Specifically, afirst endwall portion 432 is coupled to a first sidewall portion 406 offirst sidewall 404 by one or more fasteners 438. A second endwallportion 434 is coupled to a first sidewall portion 416 of secondsidewall 414 by one or more fasteners 440. Additional preformed holes orslots may be disposed proximate a top edge of first and second endwallportions 432 and 434 for coupling first and second endwall portions 432and 434 to the ceiling or top frame. Similarly, preformed holes or slotsdisposed proximate a bottom edge of the L-shaped portions 432 and 434may be used to couple first and second endwall portions 432 and 434 tothe base frame.

FIG. 3B illustrates an example of an alternative configuration of acustomizable saferoom 500 having a end ingress 502 in first endwall 504.In the illustrated embodiment, first endwall 504 is actually formed fromthe leg portions of sidewall panels. Thus, construction of first endwall504 does not require any independently constructed panel portions.Again, the illustrated embodiment is merely one example configuration ofa customizable saferoom 500. It is recognized that many modifications tothe illustrated configuration are possible. For example, end ingress 502may be centered on first endwall 504, in particular embodiments. Asanother example, first endwall 504 may be formed from straight panels,C-shaped panels, U-shaped panels, L-shaped panels, or any combinationthereof.

A second endwall 506 is formed similar to first and second endwalls 428and 430 of FIG. 3A. Thus, endwall 506 is formed from two L-shapedendwall portions 508 and 510. The shorter legs of each of the L-shapedportions 508 and 510 are coupled to one another by one or more fasteners512 that extend through aligned preformed holes formed in the shorterlegs of the L-shaped portions. Similarly, the longer legs of firstendwall portion 508 and second endwall portion 510 are coupled to afirst sidewall 512 and second sidewall 514, respectively. Specifically,first endwall portion 508 is coupled to first sidewall 512 by one ormore fasteners 516. Similarly, second endwall portion 510 is coupled tosecond sidewall 514 of by one or more fasteners 518.

Each of sidewalls 512 and 514 may be formed similar to second sidewall414 of FIG. 3A and will not be described in detail here. However, unlikesidewall 414, sidewall 512 may include a longer leg of the U-shapedsidewall panel portion 520 that is proximate to first endwall 504. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the longer leg of the U-shaped sidewallportion 520 may form a corner of the configurable saferoom 500. As aresult, U-shaped sidewall portion 520 may form both a portion ofsidewall 514 and a portion of first endwall 504. Specifically, thelonger leg of the U-shaped sidewall portion 514 may form a portion offirst endwall 504 that includes ingress 502.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an interior view of a secureingress 500 within a customizable saferoom, according to an embodimentof the present invention. As described above, ingress 500 may be formedin an endwall or sidewall of the saferoom. Additionally, it isrecognized that where design considerations make it preferable, ingress500 may be formed in a ceiling panel of the customizable saferoom.

Ingress 500 includes a door assembly 502 that is coupled to adjacentpanels s of the saferoom using heavy gauge hinges. As shown, doorassembly 502 includes a double-door assembly. However, it is recognizedthat a single door assembly, an accordion style door assembly, or anyother suitable door assembly may be used in alternative embodiments.Depending upon the particular embodiment desired and the space in whichthe saferoom is installed, double-door assembly 502 may open toward theinterior of the customizable saferoom or toward the exterior of thecustomizable saferoom. A door assembly that opens toward the interior ofthe customizable saferoom offers some benefits. For example, becausesuch a door may be opened from the inside, any debris outside the doorsof the saferoom will not prevent the opening of the doors. Additionally,such a configuration allows the inhabitants of the customizable saferoomto easily push the doors shut from the interior of the saferoom.

In the illustrated embodiment, a first door 504 a forming double-doorassembly 502 includes a lip portion 506 that is configured to create anoverlap with an adjacent second door 504 b when the door assembly is inthe closed position. As a result, debris may be prevented from enteringthe customizable saferoom through a crack between first door 504 a andsecond door 504 b. For further sealing door assembly 502, door assembly502 includes at least one locking mechanism. In the illustratedembodiment, door assembly 502 includes three locking mechanisms thateach comprise a bar 508 and cradle assembly 510. For example, asillustrated, two cradle portions 510 are mounted or otherwise coupled tothe adjacent wall panel of the customizable saferoom. To seal the doorassembly, bar 508 may be positioned proximate the interior side of firstand second doors 504 a-b and the respective ends of bar 508 may be slidinto the two opposing cradle portions 510. When in place, bar 508prevents first and second doors 504 a-b from being opened from theoutside.

Although FIG. 4 illustrates a locking mechanism that includes a bar andcradle assembly, it is recognized that any mechanism suitable forsecuring the door(s) of customizable saferoom may be utilized. Forexample, in particular embodiments, deadbolts may be used. The deadboltsmay be in addition to or in lieu of the bar and cradle assembly lockingmechanisms illustrated in FIG. 4. The dead bolts may be lockable fromthe inside, outside, or both. When locked from the outside, thecustomizable saferoom may be secured when not in use. The space may beused as storage and because lockable may be used to store valuables, inparticular embodiments. When locked from the inside, the deadbolt may beused by inhabitants of the customizable saferoom to secure the doors toprevent access by anyone outside the customizable saferoom. Suchembodiments may be desirable when customizable saferoom is to be used asa panic room in addition to or in lieu of its use as a weather shelter.As a further modification, it is recognized that although three lockingmechanisms are depicted in the illustrated embodiment, door assembly 502may include any appropriate number and combination of lockingmechanisms.

Although the present invention has been described with severalembodiments, numerous changes, substitutions, variations, alterations,transformations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled inthe art, and it is intended that the present invention encompass allsuch changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, transformations,and modifications as fall within the spirit and scope of the appendedclaims. For example, although the above described embodiments includeeach sidewall and endwall being comprised of multiple panels, it isrecognized that each sidewall and endwall may be comprised of a singlepanel. As another example, although the above described embodimentsinclude a base frame and a top frame for coupling the components of thecustomizable saferoom, it is recognized that the various panels may bedirectly coupled to one another and the base and top frames may beomitted from the components forming the customizable saferoom.

1. A customizable saferoom comprising: a ceiling panel; a first wallpanel having a first set of dimensions; a second wall panel having asecond set of dimensions; a third wall panel having a third set ofdimensions; a fourth wall panel having a fourth set of dimensions; andwherein each of the ceiling panel and the first, second, third, andfourth wall panels are coupled to at least one other of the ceilingpanel and the first, second, third, and fourth wall panels to form anenclosed structure, the first, second, third, and fourth sets ofdimensions are selected to optimize the volumetric capacity of theenclosed structure within the confines of a pre-existing space within abuilding.
 2. The customizable saferoom of claim 1, wherein: at least oneof the first, second, third, and fourth wall panels has a height that isless than a height of at least one other of the first, second, third,and fourth wall panels; and at least a portion of the ceiling panel issloped relative to a foundation upon which the customizable saferoom isassembled.
 3. The customizable saferoom of claim 2, wherein the portionof the ceiling panel that is sloped is configured for placement beneatha stairwell.
 4. The customizable saferoom of claim 1, wherein each ofthe first, second, third, and fourth wall panels comprise a plurality ofpanel portions, each panel portion coupled to at least one otheradjacent panel portion.
 5. The customizable saferoom of claim 4, whereinthe plurality of panel portions are selected from the group consistingof U-channels, C-channels, and angles.
 6. The customizable saferoom ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of the first, second, third, and fourthwall panels comprise an ingress through which the enclosed structure maybe entered and exited.
 7. The customizable saferoom of claim 6, whereinthe ingress comprises a door assembly.
 8. The customizable saferoom ofclaim 7, wherein the door assembly is configured to open into theinterior of the enclosed structure.
 9. The customizable saferoom ofclaim 7, wherein the door assembly comprises a locking mechanismallowing the door assembly to be locked from the interior of theenclosed structure.
 10. The customizable saferoom of claim 7, whereinthe door assembly comprises at least one bar and cradle lockingmechanism allowing the door assembly to be locked from the interior ofthe enclosed structure.
 11. The customizable saferoom of claim 7,wherein the door assembly comprises a locking mechanism allowing thedoor assembly to be locked from the exterior of the enclosed structure.12. The customizable saferoom of claim 1, wherein the ceiling panelcomprises a ventilation system operable to allow air to circulate to andfrom the enclosed structure.
 13. A customizable saferoom adaptable foran irregular space, comprising: a first sidewall comprising a firstportion and a second portion, the first portion of the first sidewallhaving a height that is greater than a height of the second portion ofthe first sidewall; a second sidewall comprising a first portion and asecond portion, the first portion of the second sidewall having a heightthat is greater than a height of the second portion of the secondsidewall panel; a first endwall and a second endwall, the first endwallhaving a height that is greater than a height of the second endwall; aceiling panel comprising a substantially flat portion and substantiallysloped portion; and wherein each of the first and second sidewalls,first and second endwalls, and ceiling panel are configured to becoupled to at least another of the first and second sidewalls, first andsecond endwalls, and ceiling panel to form an enclosed structure. 14.The customizable saferoom of claim 13, wherein the portion of theceiling panel that is sloped is configured for placement beneath astairwell.
 15. The customizable saferoom of claim 13, wherein at leastone of the ceiling, first sidewall, second sidewall, first endwall, andsecond endwall comprises an ingress through which the enclosed structuremay be entered and exited.
 16. The customizable saferoom of claim 15,wherein the ingress comprises a door assembly configured to open intothe interior of the enclosed structure.
 17. The customizable saferoom ofclaim 16, wherein the door assembly comprises a locking mechanismallowing the door assembly to be locked from the interior of theenclosed structure.
 18. The customizable saferoom of claim 16, whereinthe door assembly comprises a locking mechanism allowing the doorassembly to be locked from the exterior of the enclosed structure. 19.The customizable saferoom of claim 13, wherein the ceiling panelcomprises a ventilation system operable to allow air to circulate to andfrom the enclosed structure.
 20. The customizable saferoom of claim 13,further comprising a ceiling frame configured to couple the ceilingpanel to each of the first and second sidewall panels and the first andsecond endwall panels to form the enclosed structure
 21. Thecustomizable saferoom of claim 13, further comprising a base frameconfigured to couple to each of the first and second sidewall panels andthe first and second endwall panels, the base frame further configuredto anchor the enclosed structure to a foundation.
 22. A method forassembling a customizable saferoom upon a foundation, comprising:coupling a first sidewall to a ceiling panel; coupling a second sidewallto the ceiling panel; coupling a first endwall to the first and secondsidewalls; and coupling a second endwall to the first and secondsidewalls and the ceiling panel; and wherein when coupled at least oneof the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first endwall, and thesecond endwall have a height that is less than a height of at least oneother of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the first endwall, andthe second endwall such that at least a portion of the ceiling panel issubstantially non-parallel to a foundation upon which the customizablesaferoom is assembled.